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Which is the better route North Pass or Monarch Pass?

Melindak
Explorer
Explorer
Planning a trip to Gunnison, Colorado mid to late August. I am not fond of heights so I am considering going up 285 and the taking Hwy 114 over to 50 instead of going through Canyon City to 50 and over Monarch Pass. I will be pulling a 30' TT with a Tundra truck v8 5.71 lt. How is 114 for pulling a TT? I have never pulled anything over Wolf Creek Pass, but I am not fond of driving over it in my tow vehicle to give you an idea of my level of comfort. However, I want to see the Black Canyon, gunnison river, then head to Ridgeway. Any advice is greatly appreciated.
3 REPLIES 3

brirene
Explorer
Explorer
According to the CO map, North Pass is at 10149' with a6% grade, Monarch 11312 , 6.4%, so North may be better for you. I've not been over North, but have been e to w on Monarch, and didn't feel it was incredibly challenging with my set up. As they say, your mileage may vary. Happy trails!
Jayco Designer 30 RKS Medallion pkg, Trail Air pin
'05 F350 6.0 PSD CC 4x4 DRW LB B&W Companion, Edge Insight

โ€œCertainly, travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living." Miriam Beard

GizmosMom
Explorer
Explorer
We have taken 285 and 114 many times to and from Gunnison. Nice road.
Yes, Monarch Pass is very scenic but it gives me shudders.
Marilyn w/ Joe, 2016 Class C Sunseeker 2430 SF, often pulling a Ranger bass boat. Traveling with Trigger
Smudge & Gizmo are waiting at the Rainbow Bridge

crabbin_cabin
Explorer II
Explorer II
114 is OK for you but Monarch is also pretty easy, compared to other CO passes.